The Sea Robbers will be aiming to seal a positive result in Tanzania on Sunday ahead of the return leg at Orlando Stadium.
"When it comes to Pirates I feel like they've got the pedigree to win the Champions League like Sundowns," Mabalane tells KickOff.
"Looking at their squad and the pedigree and depth they've got they should score in Tanzania.
"It's the first game and it's away so obviously they have to score first.
"Personally, I don't see the point of defending when you are playing away.
"But I feel if you play away getting a draw becomes easy.
"I feel like Pirates can win this game with the players they have, they should make things happen.
"Simba is not really a difficult team, the only thing difficult with the away games are the outside antics.
"I'm only worried about Mako's position, he is crucial not only in defence but also in attack."